Assistant Program Manager

McAlister Institute for Treatment & Education • Chula Vista, CA

19d • Onsite

About The Position

Join McAlister Institute, a 49-year beacon in San Diego's Recovery Community. McAlister Institute is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Assistant Manager to support the delivery of high-quality substance use disorder treatment and recovery services at one of our adult outpatient programs. This leadership role combines direct client care with program oversight responsibilities, helping ensure effective, evidence-based services for adults, including individuals with co-occurring disorders and those involved in the criminal justice system. The Assistant Manager serves as a key member of the treatment team and acts as the Program Manager's designee when needed. This is an excellent opportunity for a behavioral health professional who is passionate about recovery, leadership, and community impact. They are responsible for maintaining an active client caseload while assisting with the day-to-day operations of an adult outpatient treatment program.

Requirements

• Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in compliance with DHCS requirements with a minimum two (2) years of experience in behavioral health, substance use treatment, or related human services field.
• Ability to meet the varied treatment and recovery needs of individuals in a multi-cultural environment with a strong understanding of evidence-based practices.
• Experience working with Probation, Child Welfare Services, Dependency Drug Court, or other criminal justice system partners.
• Exudes a calm and competent manner, able to converse with a multidisciplinary team effectively.
• Strong documentation, organizational, and computer skills.
• Ability to pass all pre-employment screenings, including references, a criminal background check with at least one year clear of probation or parole, a drug test, and a TB test.
• Must be able to travel independently and reliably to fulfill the essential functions of the position.
• Ability to meet all agency and contract requirements related to training, certifications, public health, and reporting standards.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application.
• Candidates must have at least one year clear of probation or parole, a drug test, and a negative TB test.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree, preferred.
• Supervisory experience and program leadership, preferred.
• Bilingual proficiency preferred.
• Familiarity with electronic health records.

Responsibilities

• Uphold and promote the mission, philosophy, values, and direction of McAlister Institute.
• Manage an active client caseload and maintain all required clinical documentation.
• Conduct screenings, assessments, and intakes utilizing tools such as ASI, ASAM, PCC, and related instruments.
• Develop, implement, and update individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients.
• Provide individual counseling, crisis intervention, treatment planning, recovery support, and discharge planning.
• Facilitate educational workshops, process groups, and recovery-focused services.
• Deliver evidence-based, culturally responsive, trauma-informed care.
• Assist in overseeing daily program operations and serve as backup to the Program Manager.
• Support staff supervision, scheduling, training, and program coordination.
• Participate in treatment team meetings, case conferences, and supervision activities.
• Collaborate with criminal justice agencies, community partners, referral sources, and client support systems.
• Assist with month-end reporting and other administrative responsibilities.
• Ensure compliance with DHCS AOD Program Certification Standards, Drug Medi-Cal requirements, Title 22 regulations, and 42 CFR confidentiality standards.
• Complete timely progress notes, client records, billing activities, and data entry.
• Support quality assurance activities, peer reviews, corrective action plans, and reporting requirements.
• Support administrative functions including drug testing, billing, and program documentation.
• Regular travel between Company work sites, client locations, and other business-related destinations.
• Maintain a clean, safe, welcoming, and professional treatment environment.
• Attend required meetings, trainings, and maintain all required certifications.
• Promote wellness, self-care, and professional conduct aligned with organizational values.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• 13 paid annual holidays, including your birthday
• 12 paid vacation days
• paid sick leave
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility
• 403(b) Retirement Plan + up to 6% Employer Match
• Health Insurance available the first of the month following 30 days of employment (Sharp)
• EAP

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree